The West Coast Eagles have beaten the Carlton Blues at the MCG in a gripping contest that never became a pure and open game of football yet certainly showed the tough and resilient qualities of each team.
The Blues only ever managed to lead for a short period and it appeared that the visitors had their measure for much of the contest, however, there were moments where Brendon Bolton’s team really threatened the table-topping Eagles and his young side should be proud of their effort.
It was a game devoid of outstanding individual performances bar the efforts of Liam Jones, Harry McKay and Mark LeCras, and one in which the grind became more important than flair or invention.
Both clubs will walk away satisfied. Carlton will feel assured they have shown their fans that they can compete with the big guns in the competition and the West Coast faithful will wipe their brows and walk away happy with the win.
Final score
Carlton 10.9 (69)
West Coast Eagles 10.19 (79)